Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
2.2 Mapping Sound
Over millennia, maps have been powerful instruments to communicate
geographic spaces that are too large or too complex to be seen directly
(MacEachren 1995, Dodge et al. 2008). Existing communication
techniques indicate that mapping sound is an appropriate instrument for an
integrative and interdisciplinary documentation of the sonic environment.
One of the main tasks of the END is the publication of noise maps to
communicate immediate problems of noise exposure to the general public
(EU 2002). Concepts developed in multimedia cartography add audio
visual features to noise maps to facilitate their understanding (Scharlach
2002). Cartographic visualizations within soundscape research highlight
acoustic spatial identities or auditory effects of the sonic environment by
using simple black-and-white points, lines, areas, or graphic semiologies
(Southworth 1969, Servigné et al. 1999). Cutting-edge simulation
approaches implement sound propagation based on punctual or spatially
extended sound sources. This allows for the graphic representation of
sound in relation with other topographical objects, such as buildings
(Michel 2008). Graphical intersections with other topographical objects are
important to provide orientation in the setting, give insight into the spatial
dimension, or reveal interactions of the acoustic parameters. Consequently,
the visualization of sound demands an integrated map design that suits the
perspicuous presentation of both acoustic and topographical objects.
3- Approach
The heterogeneity of disciplines dealing with characteristics of the sonic
environment opens up a huge range of involved stakeholders, such as
domain experts, scientists, planners, decision-makers, people concerned
with noise, and the general public. Therefore, we need a cross-disciplinary
communication framework that is suitable for multiple applications
according to specific questions or target audiences. This includes a
medium- and application-independent concept to guarantee its general
qualification and usage. Furthermore, the design has to operate on a broad
range of media formats, such as paper or computer-based and mobile
devices.
Our approach is to develop a simple graphical language that connects the
above mentioned knowledge levels. This consists of an appropriate set of
